Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 7 August 2026

Showing 1,201-1,250 of 1,438 articles

6 Million Duplicate Data Found in Free Nutritious Meal Programme Recipient List

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has identified approximately 6 million duplicate entries in the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme's beneficiary database. The duplicates arose from individuals being registered across multiple government agencies, such as students enrolled in both regular schools and Islamic boarding schools. The government is now coordinating data across ministries to ensure aid is accurately targeted.

Huawei to Partner with GSMA M360 ASEAN 2026

Huawei has been announced as a partner for the inaugural GSMA M360 ASEAN 2026 event in Kuala Lumpur. The conference will bring together telecom operators, policymakers, and technology firms to discuss the future of connectivity, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation in Southeast Asia. Huawei aims to contribute to the dialogue on intelligent connectivity and its role in regional economic and social development.

Algorithm and the Fading Physical Memory of Civilisation

The destruction of rare manuscripts to train AI models represents a new and alarming form of cultural cannibalism, reducing priceless historical artefacts to mere data. This practice severs the authentic link between past and future, discarding the physical context that provides invaluable empirical evidence. A call is made for an international moratorium on destructive scanning and for the tech industry to invest in non-destructive preservation technologies.

Ombudsman Appreciates Jember's Public Service Improvements

The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia has praised the Jember Regency Government for its significant improvements in public service delivery, particularly in civil administration. The recognition was marked by a rebranding event and the signing of a memorandum of understanding to strengthen public service governance. Officials highlighted the transformation from previous poor conditions and emphasised the importance of population data as a foundation for digital social protection.

The Financial Strength Behind Embraer's Global Ascent: A Boeing-Airbus Challenger?

Brazilian planemaker Embraer is experiencing a surge in demand, with 2025 deliveries rising 18% to 244 units, driving its stock performance well ahead of Airbus and Boeing. While its revenue remains a fraction of its rivals, Embraer boasts the healthiest balance sheet with the lowest liability-to-asset ratio. The company has maintained positive free cash flow, contrasting sharply with Boeing's recent struggles with negative equity and massive losses.

RI aims for nationwide 5G coverage by 2029 to power AI development

Indonesia's government is targeting nationwide 5G coverage by 2029 to support the country's transition to an AI-driven economy. The Communications and Digital Ministry plans to upgrade existing fibre-optic networks and offer incentives such as affordable spectrum auctions to accelerate private sector investment. The strategy aims to transform digital infrastructure from basic connectivity into a platform for AI cloud services, IoT, and enhanced productivity across key sectors including agriculture, mining, and healthcare.

Bogor Regent Orders Temporary Halt to Ciherang Nutrition Unit After Suspected MBG Food Poisoning

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto has ordered the temporary closure of a nutrition fulfilment unit in Ciherang after 25 people, including students and teachers, fell ill with suspected food poisoning from the Free Nutritious Meal programme. The local health agency has taken food samples for laboratory testing, and operations at the facility will remain suspended until results are known. The incident has prompted health checks at other schools served by the same kitchen.

Lodewyk Pusung Files New Pretrial Motion, This Time at Central Jakarta District Court

Lodewyk Pusung, former deputy head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN), has filed a new pretrial motion at the Central Jakarta District Court, challenging the legality of asset seizures by the Attorney General's Office. This follows a previous unsuccessful pretrial motion at the South Jakarta District Court regarding his suspect status in an alleged corruption case. The case involves the mismanagement of the free nutritious meal programme, with seven individuals named as suspects.

KBPBI Committed to Overseeing Manpower Bill, Fighting for Workers' Rights

The Indonesian Labour Struggle Grand Coalition (KBPBI) has pledged to closely monitor the deliberation of the Manpower Bill, threatening mass action if the final legislation fails to meet workers' expectations. The coalition, which claims to represent 90 per cent of the country's unions, has submitted its own draft proposal to the House of Representatives. KBPBI emphasised its independence from any political party and insisted the bill must accommodate the interests of all stakeholders.

SIPD's Losses Swell 240.67% Despite Rising Sales, Here's Why

PT Sreeya Sewu Indonesia Tbk (SIPD) saw its net loss balloon by 240.67% in the first half of 2026, despite a 10.76% increase in net sales to Rp2.78 trillion. The poultry processor's performance was dragged down by a surge in cost of goods sold and operating expenses. Consequently, cash flow from operations was heavily negative, driven by increased payments to suppliers.

US says temporary Hormuz Strait passage will be free of charge

The United States has indicated that a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz will operate without permits or fees, following an agreement between Iran and Oman. The arrangement, which is pending approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council, could be formally announced within days. The development follows President Trump's decision to suspend a planned attack on Iran amid prospects for a broader peace deal.

DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos raise funds to restore endangered species

Leonardo DiCaprio's Re:wild foundation and Jeff Bezos' Earth Fund have launched the Phoenix Species Series, a programme to support the recovery of 100 endangered species across 30 countries. The initiative, backed by a $100 million contribution from Bezos matched by DiCaprio and other partners, aims to halt extinctions and improve the conservation status of threatened animals and plants. The project aligns with the global Kunming-Montreal Biodiversity Framework.

Party Linked to Ex-Chairman Speaks Out on Hundreds of Weapons Found at South Jakarta School

A representative for a former foundation chairman has claimed ownership of 995 airsoft guns discovered at a South Jakarta school, stating they were legally permitted and intended for a defunct extracurricular programme. The discovery, which also included a single licensed firearm, is believed to have surfaced due to an internal foundation leadership dispute. Police are currently investigating the matter.

Bromo Fire Spreads to 120 Hectares, Water Bombing Helicopters Deployed

A forest and land fire within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has expanded to an estimated 120 hectares. Firefighting efforts are now focused on deploying water bombing helicopters to tackle inaccessible hotspots on steep slopes and cliffs. The challenging terrain has prevented ground teams from reaching the flames, making aerial operations critical to containing the blaze.

The Unexpected Secret Behind the Success of Many Chinese Entrepreneurs

A Harvard Business Review study reveals that Confucian traditions and a history of surviving hardship are key drivers behind the success of Chinese entrepreneurs. Researcher John Kao found that 90% of the 150 successful entrepreneurs interviewed were first-generation immigrants who fled turmoil in China. The findings highlight a strong cultural preference for family-run businesses, frugality, and tangible asset investment.

Sued by Former Director, Indonesian Chemical Firm DPNS Files Counterclaim

PT Duta Pertiwi Nusantara (DPNS) has filed a counterclaim against its former director, Tjham Kon Tjiap, alleging misuse of company funds for personal expenses. The chemical manufacturer claims the former executive misappropriated approximately Rp4.37 billion for items including plastic surgery, personal utility bills, and vehicle down payments. DPNS asserts the financial impact is not material as the individual has been dismissed and the company is pursuing legal recovery of the funds.

North Kalimantan's Economy Grows 4.96% in Q2 2026, Boosted by Electricity Sector Surge

North Kalimantan's economy expanded by 4.96% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, driven by a 190.26% surge in the electricity and gas procurement sector. Investment, reflected in Gross Fixed Capital Formation, also grew significantly by 20.18%, indicating robust infrastructure development and business activity. The province's cumulative growth for the first half of 2026 reached 5.09%.

TAP Empowers Women Oil Palm Farmers with Sustainable Cultivation Practices

PT Triputra Agro Persada Tbk, through its subsidiary, has launched a training programme in East Kalimantan to boost the capacity of oil palm smallholders, with a focus on including women. The initiative provides free instruction in Good Agricultural Practices to improve productivity and family welfare. The programme aligns with government efforts to modernise agriculture and enhance farmer prosperity.

IHSG strengthens as investors weigh global and domestic sentiment

The Jakarta Composite Index (IHSG) opened higher on Friday as market participants assessed a mix of global and domestic factors. Caution prevailed ahead of US nonfarm payroll data, while geopolitical tensions in the Strait of Hormuz pushed up energy prices. Domestically, the government's new stimulus package and an improved tax ratio provided some support.

MDIA Shares Surge 274% in a Month, Parent Company VIVA Quietly Benefits

Shares of media company PT Intermedia Capital Tbk (MDIA) have skyrocketed 274% over the past month, drawing attention to the potential windfall for its controlling shareholder, PT Visi Media Asia Tbk (VIVA). VIVA, which holds an 80.73% stake, has seen its investment value rise significantly, though the market is assessing whether this asset appreciation is fully reflected in VIVA's own share price. Both the stock exchange and analysts have urged investor caution, noting the absence of any material corporate action to justify the surge and the high volatility typically associated with such rapid price movements.

Government to Study Solar Power Plant Development Along Trans-Java Toll Road

The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM) is initiating a study to develop solar power plants (PLTS) along the Trans-Java toll road, with execution targeted for next year. The initiative is part of a broader 100 GW solar programme, which is expected to significantly reduce energy imports and contribute billions to Indonesia's GDP.

Telkom Akses Strengthens Operational Transformation to Achieve Equitable Access Nationwide

PT Telkom Akses reported positive operational performance in the first half of 2026, driven by consistent corporate transformation. The company built 366,000 new ports and deployed over 20,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable to expand digital connectivity. These efforts support the Danantara Indonesia commitment to building a national digital economy foundation and improving service quality across the archipelago.

Nickel and Tin Exports Resume as Rare Earth Element Issue Resolved

The Indonesian government has resolved regulatory hurdles that halted mineral exports, including nickel and alumina, due to rare earth element (LTJ) content concerns. The first shipment of alumina is scheduled for release today in West Kalimantan, signalling restored coordination between ministries. A revision to the Trade Minister's regulation is being finalised to provide clear technical standards for surveyors and customs officials.

Ministry of Higher Education Investigates Paper Claiming Nobel Nomination for Free Meal Programme

Indonesia's Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology has launched an investigation into a controversial academic paper that proposed the country's Free Nutritious Meal programme for a Nobel Peace Prize nomination and listed President Prabowo Subianto as a co-author. The ministry stated that the individuals named in the paper were unaware of and did not consent to their inclusion. The investigation also revealed that the lead author, identified by the initials DD, does not hold a professorship and is not affiliated as a university lecturer.

House Commission III Chair Urges North Sumatra Police to Thoroughly Investigate Death of Ex-Police Wife

The chairman of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has called on the North Sumatra Regional Police to conduct a transparent and thorough investigation into the death of a 35-year-old woman, the former wife of a police officer. The woman was found dead from a gunshot wound, with initial reports suggesting suicide using her ex-husband's service revolver. The family has raised doubts about the circumstances, prompting the legislator to demand a scientific crime investigation and full disclosure regarding the firearm's origin.

Fair Finance Asia Urges Banks to Halt Coal Sector Funding in ASEAN

A new report from Fair Finance Asia and I-JET calls on financial institutions to cease funding for coal expansion and strengthen social safety nets. The report assesses energy transition progress in five ASEAN nations, finding current measures insufficient to meet Paris Agreement targets. It recommends ending all new coal project financing and ensuring a just transition that protects affected workers and communities.

Central Java Government and IKN Authority Explore Collaboration and Investment

The Central Java provincial government is exploring collaboration and investment opportunities with the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) Authority, focusing on sectors such as furniture, banking, and higher education. Governor Ahmad Luthfi led a delegation to meet with IKN Authority Head Basuki Hadimuljono to discuss potential partnerships. The IKN Authority highlighted that private investment realisation has reached Rp 74.54 trillion, with further opportunities available across various strategic sectors.

DPR Urges Police to Uncover Mastermind Behind 46 Million 'Koplo' Pills

House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Ahmad Sahroni has called on law enforcement to fully investigate the foiled distribution of 46 million prescription pills in Serpong, urging them to trace the network back to the major kingpin. He stressed that the massive seizure, valued at Rp230 billion, indicates a highly organised syndicate and that the case must not stop with the arrest of field operatives. Sahroni also warned that any potential involvement by rogue officers must be dealt with without compromise.

Banda Aceh Police Chief and Narcotics Head Examined by National Police Internal Affairs

The Banda Aceh Police Chief and the Head of the Narcotics Unit are undergoing an internal examination by the National Police's Internal Affairs Division (Divpropam) in Jakarta. While the exact reasons for the investigation remain undisclosed, the Aceh Police have appointed an acting chief to ensure public services continue without disruption. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and respect the ongoing process.

US to Monitor Social Media of Mexican and Canadian Business Visa and Journalist Applicants

The United States will implement new regulations to scrutinise the social media accounts of Mexican and Canadian journalists and businesspeople seeking entry under the USMCA trade agreement. The policy, revealed in an internal document, extends existing social media checks already required for diplomatic and other visa categories. The State Department emphasises that a visa is a privilege, not a right, and that decisions are closely tied to national security.

Koster Wins Lawsuit Over Ban on Bottled Water Below 1 Litre

Bali Governor Wayan Koster has won a legal challenge against his policy banning the production and distribution of bottled water under one litre. The Denpasar Administrative Court rejected a lawsuit filed by CV Tirta Taman Bali, and the ruling was upheld on appeal, with the decision becoming final after the company failed to file a cassation appeal by the 29 July 2026 deadline.

Indonesia and Arab Nations Condemn Repeated Israeli Attacks on Civilian Targets in Gaza

Indonesia and several Arab nations have jointly condemned Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have targeted civilian infrastructure including healthcare facilities, despite a ceasefire agreement. The foreign ministers stressed that these actions violate international law and undermine peace efforts, calling for the UN Security Council to enforce accountability. The statement also rejected any attempts to annex occupied Palestinian territory, reaffirming that a two-state solution is the only path to a just and comprehensive peace.

Minister of Manpower: Strengthening Competencies Key to Meeting Labour Market Demands

Minister of Manpower Yassierli has stressed the urgent need to enhance graduate competencies to bridge the persistent skills gap between university leavers and industry requirements. He highlighted President Prabowo Subianto's emphasis on STEM education as a crucial foundation for building a competitive workforce. The minister called for continuous curriculum evaluation to equip students with the analytical and problem-solving skills demanded by the evolving job market.

Asian Currencies Diverge Against Dollar: Rupiah and Ringgit Weaken, Yen and Won Strengthen

Asian currencies showed mixed performance against the US dollar on Friday, with the Japanese yen and South Korean won leading gains while the Philippine peso and Indonesian rupiah faced the steepest declines. The divergence came amid shifting global risk sentiment and uncertainty over US monetary policy.

Ministry of Transportation to Audit Safety Management System After KMP Mutiara Fire

The Ministry of Transportation will conduct a comprehensive safety audit of the operator of KMP Mutiara Sentosa II following a fire incident in Sumenep waters. The audit aims to evaluate the implementation of the safety management system and prevent future occurrences. The incident resulted in 238 people being evacuated, with 233 survivors and five fatalities.

SUS ENVIRONMENT Secures Two WtE Projects in Indonesia, Accelerating Global Expansion

SUS ENVIRONMENT has been selected to develop two major waste-to-energy projects in Indonesia, marking a significant step in its international expansion strategy. The company will lead a consortium for the Lampung Raya project and join another for the Surabaya Raya project, following a competitive selection process involving 68 proposals. These projects aim to address Indonesia's urban waste challenges while supporting the nation's clean energy transition.

Active BPJS Kesehatan to Become Nationwide Requirement for Driving Licence

The Indonesian government plans to make active participation in the national health insurance programme (JKN) a mandatory requirement for obtaining a driving licence (SIM) across the country. The policy, currently being piloted in Medan and soon in Java, aims to boost active membership by integrating health insurance with public services. The requirement is already legally mandated under a 2023 National Police regulation.

Brigadier General Made Agus: Viral Information Is Not Necessarily Factual

A senior Indonesian police official has warned his officers about the dangers of misinformation in the 'post-truth' era, where false narratives can quickly gain public legitimacy. Brigadier General Made Agus Prasatya highlighted a case where a traffic officer was falsely portrayed as accepting a bribe and debunked hoaxes regarding new traffic fines and tax operations.

Padang City Government Partners with Hildesheim and UNDP to Strengthen Old Town and Batang Arau Revitalisation

The Padang City Government is collaborating with its sister city Hildesheim, Germany, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to revitalise the historic Old Town and the Batang Arau River. The initiative, discussed at an international symposium, focuses on waste management, environmental restoration, and developing sustainable tourism based on a circular economy. Officials highlighted the need to address the 669 tonnes of daily waste and river pollution to transform the area into a competitive and clean global destination.

Antam Gold Price Drops IDR 29,000 as Global Gold Rebounds Amid Oil and Interest Rate Turmoil

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell by IDR 29,000 per gram on Friday, bringing the base price to IDR 2.65 million. This domestic decline occurred even as global gold prices reversed course and strengthened during early Asian trading. The market movements reflect ongoing investor uncertainty driven by fluctuations in oil prices and interest rate expectations.

BP Tapera Predicts Private Sector Workers Will Be Biggest Subsidised Housing Applicants in Second Half

Indonesia's BP Tapera forecasts that private sector employees will continue to dominate applications for subsidised housing in the second half of the year. The agency also sees growing potential among young families, informal workers, and residents of satellite cities, buoyed by policy improvements and extended loan tenors of up to 40 years. Data from 2025 showed that over 60% of beneficiaries were millennials and Gen Z, indicating strong awareness of long-term property investment.

KuCoin Pay Expands Stablecoin Utility with Gift Card Solution for Businesses

KuCoin Pay has launched KuCoin Gift Card, a digital asset distribution solution enabling businesses to send USDT and USDC to users globally. The service supports bulk issuance and API integration, aiming to simplify corporate reward programmes, customer promotions, and employee incentives. The initiative is part of KuCoin's broader strategy to build a complete cycle for digital asset usage, from transfer to practical utilisation within its ecosystem.

Rupiah Weakens to Rp 17,931 Amid International Scrutiny of Capital Market Reforms

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp 17,931 against the US dollar in early Friday trading, as markets await key index review decisions from MSCI and FTSE Russell. Despite positive regulatory reforms by the OJK, analysts warn that the outcome of these reviews remains uncertain and could weigh on market sentiment. The passive funds managed by these index providers, particularly MSCI's estimated US$5 billion, underscore the significant influence of their decisions on Indonesian capital flows.

Antam Gold Price Drops Rp29,000 to Rp2.65 Million per Gram on Friday

The price of gold bullion produced by PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) fell by Rp29,000 to Rp2,650,000 per gram on Friday morning. The buyback price was also adjusted to Rp2,461,000 per gram. Transactions are subject to specific tax regulations, including a 1.5 percent income tax on buybacks exceeding Rp10 million and a 0.25 percent tax on purchases.

Motivated by Resentment, Female Student in Surakarta Becomes Victim of AI-Based 'Revenge Porn'

The Central Java Regional Police have arrested a male student for creating and distributing AI-generated deepfake pornography using the face of a female university student from Surakarta. The suspect, who had a previous romantic relationship with the victim, admitted to acting out of resentment. He faces up to 12 years in prison and a maximum fine of Rp12 billion under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law and the new Criminal Code.

Welcoming Indonesia's 81st Independence Day, GoTo Group's Strategy to Boost MSME Digitalisation

GoTo Group, through its GoPay Merchant platform, has launched the 'PESTA 17AN' programme to celebrate Indonesia's 81st Independence Day throughout August 2026. The initiative aims to accelerate the digitalisation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by offering significant discounts on payment tools like GoPay Spiker and QRIS printing. The programme also includes an inspirational storytelling series and social media challenges to encourage wider adoption of digital payment solutions among local businesses.

Bromo Fire Expands to 120 Hectares, Water Bombing Helicopter on Standby

A wildfire in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park has now scorched approximately 120 hectares of land. Authorities have prepared a helicopter for water bombing operations to tackle flames on steep cliffs inaccessible by ground crews. The blaze, now in its fifth day, continues to threaten native vegetation including mountain pines and acacia.

Oil Heats Up, Brent Breaches US$83

Global oil prices extended their rally on Friday morning, with Brent crude surpassing US$83 per barrel. The surge is driven by renewed concerns over shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. Proposed new transit rules and fees by Iran and Oman, coupled with ongoing regional tensions, have injected a fresh geopolitical risk premium into the market.

Attorney General's Office schedules questioning of Febrie Adriansyah as suspect

The Indonesian Attorney General's Office is set to question former junior attorney general for special crimes, Febrie Adriansyah, as a suspect in a money laundering case on Friday. Adriansyah is currently detained at a KPK detention facility following his naming as a suspect alongside a private individual, Nurman Herin. The investigation stems from a handover of evidence from the national police, including 74 kilograms of gold and hundreds of billions of rupiah in foreign currency.

GoPay Merchant Invites MSMEs to Embrace Digital Payment Solutions

GoPay Merchant, part of the GoTo Group, is encouraging Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises to adopt digital payment technology to grow their businesses. The initiative is part of a month-long 'PESTA 17AN' campaign celebrating Indonesia's Independence Day, featuring heavily discounted activation fees for its GoPay Spiker soundbox and QRIS printing. The programme also includes inspirational merchant stories and social media challenges with cash prizes.